Duncan Keith returned to practice on Monday and is very optimistic hell play on Tuesday against the St. Louis Blues.

It was a day full of changes for the Blackhawks, who switched up lines and defensive pairings while welcoming Keith back. Keith (left hand) participated for the first time since sustaining his injury against the Nashville Predators last Monday.

It felt good to be back out there with the guys and getting some drills in again, he said. Things are definitely better than I expected and I think its gotten a lot better for sure.

The Blackhawks practiced special teams after Sunday nights 6-2 loss to the Vancouver Canucks, who scored five power-play goals. They also switched a few things up on Monday. Michael Frolik skated with Patrick Sharp and Jonathan Toews on the top line, while Rostislav Olesz practiced with Dave Bolland and Andrew Brunette on the reconfigured checking line.

Coach Joel Quenneville said it was likely Olesz would play Tuesday, too. Daniel Carcillo was back with Marian Hossa and Patrick Kane and Viktor Stalberg was on the fourth line with Marcus Kruger and Jamal Mayers.

Defensive pairings were also shuffled, with Keith and Brent Seabrook together again. Niklas Hjlamarsson and Nick Leddy were paired, as were Sami Lepisto and Sean ODonnell, and Steve Montador and John Scott.

Last nights game gets your attention in a lot of ways, Quenneville said. You dont mind making changes on a merit basis. Guys will get different opportunities and get a chance to enhance the opportunity going forward.